Isco: It was a perfect match for Malaga and for me

The talented midfielder has expressed his delight in the aftermath of his side's 3-0 win in their Champions League group stage opener

Spanish playmaker Isco spoke positively following Malaga's commanding Champions League group win over Zenit St Petersburg, in which he scored two goals.

The 20-year-old was named as man of the match for the cash-strapped club, who convincingly dispatched the big-spending Russian giants, despite selling several key players over the summer.

"It was a perfect match, for me and all the team," Isco announced, speaking to reporters.

"We acheived this result with the hard work we do every day. The coach gives us a lot of confidence, the team is united and this was the key to this victory.

"We know that we have to go game by game, step by step. This shirt [from today] is for me - I don't want to give it away as a present," he explained.

Malaga boss Manuel Pellegrini was keen to thank the fans for their support following the 3-0 win, and praised the spirit in his squad.

"I'm very happy with the support of our fans," Pellegrini said, speaking to Canal+.

"During the first half, we've missed some opportunities and we let them create their own. It's important to get defensive security.

"We had not only good performances from Isco and Portillo, but from Camacho and our central defenders.

Pellegrini also spoke of the difficult situation that the club has found itself in, in recent months.

"This team has been suffering tough moments. I'm very happy with the spirit we showed. It was important for us not to let the project go down, and also for the club itself, and for the people too," reasoned the Malaga boss.